Private: Political Theory and Thoughts Content
PREREQUISITES OF DEMOCRACY
• Elections on their own do not make a country democratic
• Control over government decisions about policy constitutionally vested in elected representatives.
• Elected representatives chosen in frequent and fair elections.
• Elected representatives exercise their constitutional powers.
• All adults have the right to vote in elections.
• All adults have the right to run for public office.
• Citizens have the right to express themselves on political matters, defined broadly, without the risk of state punishment.
• Citizens have the right to seek out alternative sources of information, such as the news media, and such sources are protected by law.
• Citizens have the right to form independent associations and organizations, including independent political parties and interest groups.
• Government is autonomous and able to act independently from outside constraints (such as those imposed by alliances and blocs).
• Citizens concerns are adequately responded and heard by the government.